Social Work

Program Type
Undergraduate Major
Degree
Bachelor of Art (BA)
Modes of Study
Blended;In Person

Full-time tuition

In-state: $8,910;
Out-of-state: $26,250 (30 credit hours per year). See details and other costs

Financial aid

Average offer covers a large portion of tuition & fees.
In-state: nearly 100%;
Out-of-state: nearly 70%.
May include scholarships, grants, waiver, & work-study. Explore aid

Program duration

Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options

Admissions

SAT & ACT scores optional. Early action & year-round admissions. View application process & deadlines

Program Highlights

  • Prepare for a wide range of careers in areas such as family support, mental health support, rehabilitation, residential care, outreach, community education and organization, and advocacy.
  • Gain real-world experience through a year-long internship in approved agency settings under professional supervision.
  • Build community and grow professionally by joining the Social Work Student Organization or Phi Alpha Honor Society.
  • Learn from full-time faculty who are PhD-trained social work scholars with diverse areas of expertise in practice, theory, research, and policy.
  • Study in a program that is nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
  • Qualify to apply for state licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) as well as a Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community (MHRT-C).
  • Connect with fellow students: Most Social Work courses are held in-person on our Portland campus.
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Real-world experience

Field education is at the heart of our BA in Social Work program, and it’s an integral part of preparing for generalist practice. You’ll intern with an agency for two semesters, where you’ll learn to integrate classroom theory with the realities of professional social work.

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Career opportunities

Our graduates are qualified for a range of careers that promote social justice through critical inquiry and civic participation. You’ll be prepared for direct practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

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Accomplished faculty

Our full-time faculty have a wide variety of experience in the profession of social work. All faculty engage in active research that is typically connected with their work in the field. Research topics include social justice, mental health, compassion and wellness, and child welfare, among others.

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Program requirements

Prepare for a profession that is deeply committed to relieving human distress and alleviating the causes of social inequality and oppressive conditions. Study a multi-level, strengths-based practice that emphasizes community to enhance the well-being of diverse individuals, families, groups.

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Licensure and certification

As a graduate, you’ll be eligible to apply for the MHRT-C and state licensure at the LSW level.

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National accreditation

Our program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which is the national organization that accredits all social work programs in the United States.

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Looking ahead to graduate school?

Our MSW Advanced Standing option allows you to earn your Master of Social Work in as little as 1 year, after obtaining your bachelor’s degree in Social Work.

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Scholarship opportunities

Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.

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Considering transferring to USM?

We welcome students who are transferring from another four-year university or community college. Our knowledgeable Admissions Counselors will help you to navigate the admissions and credit-transfer process.

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Next steps

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